FAQ

1. How to deal with small talk or getting off topic?

• Mention, “This is important, but could you talk about this another time?”
• Give option to stay afterwards and talk about it.
• Small talk may lead to bigger issues (topics are boring, irrelevant, etc.).
• Put it to the group, “Do you all want to continue talking about this?”
• Remind members about group commitments or covenant.

2. How to deal with uninvolved participant?

• Invite the person to participate.
• Allow time for reflection. Some people need to have activities (e.g., writing, drawing, guided meditation, etc.), that help them to reflect and process in order for them to share .
• Be aware that listening is another form of participation.
• Be patient. It takes time for people to feel comfortable to share. Besides, sometimes they want to share but don’t know what or how to share.

3. How to deal with low attendance?

• Try to understand the causes of low attendance: Meeting topics? Meeting day and time? Low commitments? Conflicts?
• Focus on what works (see #4 below).
• Bring it up to the whole group.
• Be aware that “CLC is not for everyone.”

4. How to build a dynamic CLC group?

• Create a culture of Prayer Partner (1:1 pray for each other)
• Bring the whole group to the CLC or Campus Ministry event.
• Invite the whole group to go on Ignatian retreat, attend mass, etc.
• Engage with social justice and community service.
• Empower members to take turns to lead opening and closing prayers.

5. How to deal with conflict or tensions among members or co-leaders?

• Pray about it
• If the conflict happens between the two, meet with each individually and ask him/her, “How can I support you?”
• If the conflict affects the whole group, bring it up to the group and talk about it.
• Talk with your formation team person or Director of CLC.

6. My group is going well. How can it go deeper?

• Ask other leaders or your formation team person for ideas.
• Ask your members for ideas.
• Ask God for ideas.

7. Can I change a meeting topic?

• Yes, of course. Having said that, we recommend that you use most of the meetings in the CLC Resource Manual. Otherwise, the meetings are not CLC.